Beecher #4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beecher #5 Ringstveit Reservoir
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Beecher #4 is a private dam located in Cohagen, Montana, along Cottonwood Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet, Beecher #4 plays a crucial role in supporting the local community's water needs while also contributing to the overall ecological balance of the area.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Beecher #4 is classified as having a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite not being federally owned, the dam is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and significance of dams like Beecher #4 is essential in managing water resources effectively and sustainably in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Located in Garfield County, Montana, Beecher #4 stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resources management. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Beecher #4 become increasingly critical in ensuring the resilience of local ecosystems and communities. By staying informed and engaged with water infrastructure projects like Beecher #4, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable stewardship of our precious water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
577 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yellowstone River At Forsyth Mt
|
5430cfs |
Yellowstone River At Miles City Mt
|
8100cfs |
Tongue River At Miles City Mt
|
263cfs |
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Musselshell River At Mosby Mt
|
12cfs |
Flatwillow Creek Near Mosby Mt
|
17cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Beecher #4